Quantum: Rock of Ages #6
Posted: Wednesday, February 8, 2006
By: Steve Saville
Writer(s): Philip Clark
Artist(s): James Rodriquez
Publishers: Dreamchild Press (Self Published)
From: USA
Price: $2.99(US
Now these guys know how to kick off a comic book with impact. I mean a naked "sensualist" [like yeah] complete with strap on dildo doing the choking thing on a client while using aforementioned marital aid is a pretty mind blowing kick off in anyone’s books. This is the scene our characters interrupt [much to their and our surprise]. As if this graphic image was not enough we are then "treated" to a further images of the naked [and well endowed] Blu as our protagonists struggle to restrain her.
I am not sure whether this was meant to be sexy or not, I was just plain terrified. The cover did make it clear that Quantum was for mature readers, I’m mature but I was still perplexed by Blu’s activities, just what the heck is she doing here. After a little rest I was ready for the rest of the comic. Thankfully it was just as interesting if not quite as shocking.
This latest edition of Quantum finds us half was through a fascinating story arc. Nick Vargas finds that he has the ability to disappear thanks to a strange gemstone fragment that has suddenly appeared imbedded in his head. In seeking the origin of this gemstone Nick is transported to an alternative reality where Earth is ruled by Nazi Germany. Nick finds himself involved in a quest for the other fragments the gem which must all be recovered to prevent the multiverse from being destroyed. Of course they are not the only people who are tracking down the gem, and this is where the villainous ‘freeks’ enter the storyline. There is also a pretty damned impressive satanic monster called Delios who shows a dab hand at arson. The story fair cracks along, at times the pace is almost exhausting, but the tight control over plot is never lost, this is a well- written comic. The dialogue is believable and effective and adds to character development. Philip Clarke deserves praise for the way he has created a complex concept and yet with skilful writing he has produced a highly accessible comic.
The concept of alternate realities gives Clarke considerable poetic license and so in the brave new world that he creates it is the ‘whites’ who are in the minority. This comic is full of nice little touches just like this.
As you should expect when you see that the artist is one James Rodriquez, the art is of the very highest standard. His representation of the human form is a joy to behold. Of particular note is the exciting and dynamic page layout, imaginative and innovative yet still easy to follow. Quantum looks great, the pages are full of energy without being cluttered or too busy. Everything feels balanced. As you would expect this particular chapter ends with a very effective cliff-hanger that leaves the reader eager for more [although I doubt I will ever be ready for any more of Blu].
In a Word: Graphic.
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